The Tribune

By BRENT STUBBS

Chief Sports Editor

bstubbs@tribunemedia.net    

IT’S been a long time coming, but sensei Elrick McKinney said he’s grateful that he has finally gotten his first major recognition for his contribution of more than 40 years to martial arts in the country.

It came on Sunday, February 9 at the Rosen Hotel Grand Ballroom into the Professor Pierre Martial Arts Award Hall of Fame, thanks to the nomination from his Krav Maga instructor Kancho Petr Hlavac from the Czech Republic. 

Sensei McKinney was inducted into the Professor Pierre Martial Arts Award Hall of Fame, for over 40 years in martial arts training. “It brought tears to my eyes when I stepped into the room,” sensei McKinney said. “I am just glad to have been honoured because the Bible tells us that a man “no prophet is accepted in his own country.”

For the countless young men and women he has developed, sensei McKinney said the induction is a testament to the hard work, discipline and determination that every student in martial arts should aspire to have.

“When I walked into the ring,” said McKinney of martial artists from throughout the tournament. 

“When I tell you this, it’s so good to be recognised especially since it’s never been done here at home. It’s true what the Bible says that a ‘prophet is not received in his own home.’ Somebody who came here and saw my résumé decided that they will nominate me for induction into the Hall of Fame.”

Sensei McKenzie, 64, believes in giving back and as such has given of his time to work with children in urban areas such as Bain Town, The Grove, Englerston, South Beach and Pinewood Gardens, teaching them karate, about having respect for others while keeping them out of trouble and off the streets. He also has after-school programmes in many of the government schools and at the Elizabeth East Children’s Home and The Ranfurly Home for Children. 

Sensei McKinney has competed in many tournaments locally and abroad, losing some and winning many. He ensures that he keeps on the cutting edge of his craft by attending training at the Okinawan Goju Master Camp where all of the head instructors meet every year to train and keep up to date with the latest karate training programmes and scientific technologies in martial arts. 

Sensei McKinney has assisted with coaching three athletes that have won medals in Kumite at international tournaments such as the 1997 Junior Pan Am Games, 1998 CAC games and 2002 CAC Games.

Sensei McKinney has devoted his life to karate and is willing to pass on his knowledge to help those persons interested in the art. He is also experienced in boxing, kickboxing and judo, having been taught by some of the legends like Ray Minus Sr and L. Garth Wright, Master Herbie Thompson of the United States and sensei Khadijh El Shabazza. Thanking his family, friends, the Federation and the martial arts community for their support, sensei McKinney said he will definitely cherish the moment for the rest of his life.